Forest Service OKs Eldora ski resort's plans to expand

BOULDER – The U.S. Forest Service has OK'd Eldora Mountain Resort's expansion plans.

The Daily Camera reports the draft decision released Tuesday marks a critical benchmark in the years-long effort by the ski resort west of Boulder to expand and make improvements.

Highlights of the resort's plans include several new or replacement lifts, 66 acres of new trails, the creation of 77 acres of tree and gladed skiing areas, plus modifications to about 42 acres of existing tree and gladed terrain across six areas. A new lodge below the top of Indian Peaks lift is also in the plans, as is the expansion of the existing Lookout lodge.

Beginning Thursday, opponents will have 45 days to voice any objections to the draft decision. A number of environmental groups oppose the expansion.